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Updated: Jul 1, 2026

Bioluminescence Imaging of Heme Oxygenase-1 Upregulation in the Gua Sha Procedure
Published on: August 28, 2009
Hemoxygenase-1 in cardiovascular disease
Naglaa K Idriss1, Andrew D Blann, Gregory Y H Lip
1University Department of Medicine, Haemostasis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology Unit, City Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) offers protective effects against cardiovascular diseases (CVD) through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. Targeting HO-1 induction presents a promising therapeutic strategy for managing CVD.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a key enzyme in heme metabolism, producing carbon monoxide and bilirubin.
- These metabolites possess significant anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, angiogenic, and cytoprotective properties.
- HO-1 induction is a physiological response to noxious stimuli, suggesting a protective role in various conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of HO-1's role in cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- To explore the therapeutic potential of HO-1 induction for CVD management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of biochemistry, physiology, and pathophysiology of HO-1.
- Analysis of emerging evidence on HO-1 gene induction in CVD.
Main Results:
- HO-1 exhibits beneficial effects relevant to cardiovascular health.
- Carbon monoxide and bilirubin, downstream products of HO-1, mediate these protective functions.
- HO-1 induction may be an adaptive response to oxidative stress and inflammation in CVD.
Conclusions:
- HO-1 plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases.
- Targeting HO-1 gene induction offers a novel therapeutic avenue for CVD management.
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